"So Boaz went to the town gate and took a seat there. When the family redeemer he had mentioned came by, Boaz called out to him, "Come over here, friend. I want to talk to you. " So they sat down together." Ruth 4:1
This is it! This is what we've been waiting for! The tension is high. Boaz has a plan and we're pretty sure he has all his 'ducks in a row', but this other guy could still throw a wrench in things. Boaz is smooth and this other family redeemer is caught off guard - how will this situation play out?
Welcome to the 11th chapter of The Girl's Still Got It and the first half of chapter 4 in the Book of Ruth. Just when we thought things couldn't get any more intense, Boaz pounces on the unnamed, aforementioned, first-in-line family redeemer.
One of my favorite TV show genres is murder mystery. I've been watching them all my life! From Perry Mason & Matlock (currently on MeTV) to Castle and NCIS. If it has a dead body, a bad guy/girl, and someone out for justice you can bet that I've watched it. When I read the scene of Boaz at the town gate, I picture Perry Mason, walking into the court room, asking questions he already knows the answers to, catching the real murderer off guard causing him or her to confess, right there in open court! I can see that Boaz knows more than he letting on (or the story teller is telling us) and he's using his insight to follow the law and win 'his case'.
This part of the story could have been rather dry & boring - have you read a legal document lately? But the ancient story tellers knew how to spin a tale, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats and thoroughly entertained. They have not failed their 21st century audience, either! Although we know the ending, watching the events unfold & seeing how Boaz works the situation and the system, is still exciting!
Even more exciting is the parallels between what Boaz does for Ruth & Naomi and what Jesus does for his church & for us. Read carefully and see if you can note how we (God's people) are like Ruth & Naomi and how Boaz is like Jesus. And to add another layer: Jesus, in his ministry, told parables so that we could better understand His Kingdom and His ways. I think the Book of Ruth, in all it's fairy tale loveliness, is also a real-life parable. I find THAT totally mind-blowing!!
Dig into this story more with the Study Guide questions in the back of the book. And don't worry if you don't agree with the whole picture Liz paints. I didn't, and as it turns out, I wasn't too far off in my opinion.
I can't wait to hear what you think of this "courtroom drama" scene from Ruth!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Monday, November 9, 2015
TGSGI - Chapter 8,9,10
"Then Naomi said to her, "Just be patient, my daughter, until we hear what happens. The man won't rest until he has settled things today." Ruth 3:18
Thank you for your patience in my absence!! Several times over the last few weeks I wondered out loud when "Autumn got so darn busy"! Are you feeling it too? I can hardly explain all the things that have kept me busy and away from you. I hope you were able to keep up with our reading and study guide questions over the last few weeks!
The Book of Ruth has gotten pretty juicy in this third chapter! I don't know about you, but I think some of the commentaries take it a little farther than it's meant to be taken (if you know what I mean). Regardless of how you read it, though, things are moving right along in our real life fairy tale of Ruth, Boaz, and the not-so-bitter-anymore Naomi.
I can't wait to discuss this with you! Leave your impressions of chapter 3 in the Comments. Start a conversation about any of the characters, situations, or even Ms. Higgs' interpretation of the events. She's done a lot of research, but I still have a hard time with some of the innuendo that's suppose to be in here. But like all good fairy tales, there's always more to the story than what's on the surface. It's one of the reasons they are so enduring: the many layers of meaning, from the obvious & child-like to the metaphoric & insinuated. It's a morality tale suitable for all ages!
This story is also rife with irony. We have already noticed a few instances of it and our opening verse is another. One that actually made me laugh out loud. How much patience is required to wait a single day? Makes me wonder who Naomi is urging to be patient, Ruth or herself? After all, they've been in Bethlehem for a few months and no kinsman redeemer has yet stepped forward. If I were Naomi, I think I would be taking matters into my own hands, too. This is one place where Liz and I see things slightly differently. Though I do not doubt God's hand in any version of interpretation. What do you think?
Have a wonderful week! If you slacked off due to my absence, give yourself permission to take the time to read the chapters in the book and Ruth, chapter 3. It really doesn't take too long to complete the reading. The questions are worth doing. However, there are only so many productive minutes in the day. Do what you can, as it will enhance your study.
Most importantly don't skip your prayers!! Pray daily. Pray often. Pray for those you love and those you don't; pray for those in need, and those who think they aren't; pray for our planet, our government, and world leaders; pray for the animals that share our lives and those that share our earth; pray for plants & water; pray for those who are in need of healing and those who are gifted in healing. Turn everything over to God in prayer and then don't forget to be still and listen.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thank you for your patience in my absence!! Several times over the last few weeks I wondered out loud when "Autumn got so darn busy"! Are you feeling it too? I can hardly explain all the things that have kept me busy and away from you. I hope you were able to keep up with our reading and study guide questions over the last few weeks!
The Book of Ruth has gotten pretty juicy in this third chapter! I don't know about you, but I think some of the commentaries take it a little farther than it's meant to be taken (if you know what I mean). Regardless of how you read it, though, things are moving right along in our real life fairy tale of Ruth, Boaz, and the not-so-bitter-anymore Naomi.
I can't wait to discuss this with you! Leave your impressions of chapter 3 in the Comments. Start a conversation about any of the characters, situations, or even Ms. Higgs' interpretation of the events. She's done a lot of research, but I still have a hard time with some of the innuendo that's suppose to be in here. But like all good fairy tales, there's always more to the story than what's on the surface. It's one of the reasons they are so enduring: the many layers of meaning, from the obvious & child-like to the metaphoric & insinuated. It's a morality tale suitable for all ages!
This story is also rife with irony. We have already noticed a few instances of it and our opening verse is another. One that actually made me laugh out loud. How much patience is required to wait a single day? Makes me wonder who Naomi is urging to be patient, Ruth or herself? After all, they've been in Bethlehem for a few months and no kinsman redeemer has yet stepped forward. If I were Naomi, I think I would be taking matters into my own hands, too. This is one place where Liz and I see things slightly differently. Though I do not doubt God's hand in any version of interpretation. What do you think?
Have a wonderful week! If you slacked off due to my absence, give yourself permission to take the time to read the chapters in the book and Ruth, chapter 3. It really doesn't take too long to complete the reading. The questions are worth doing. However, there are only so many productive minutes in the day. Do what you can, as it will enhance your study.
Most importantly don't skip your prayers!! Pray daily. Pray often. Pray for those you love and those you don't; pray for those in need, and those who think they aren't; pray for our planet, our government, and world leaders; pray for the animals that share our lives and those that share our earth; pray for plants & water; pray for those who are in need of healing and those who are gifted in healing. Turn everything over to God in prayer and then don't forget to be still and listen.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, October 19, 2015
TGSGI - Chapter 7
"May the Lord bless him!" Naomi told her daughter-in-law. "He is showing his kindness to you as well as to your dead husband. That man is one of our closest relatives, one of our family redeemers." Ruth 2:20
This week we are reading verses 18-23 in the second chapter of Ruth (The Book of Lovingkindness) and chapter 7 of The Girl's Still Got It, by Liz Curtis Higgs. If you have some catching up to do, that's ok! Jump right in, come as you are. I am so glad you are here!
First, I have to say a great big Hallelujah! After years of computer issues, I finally have a new computer! I am very thankful for this speedy little machine :) If you're wondering if you missed a blog for chapter 6, you didn't. I did. The last 2 weeks were, well, a little overwhelming & overbooked. I just couldn't deal with computer problems on top of all of it. I hope chapter 6 enlightened, informed, and entertained. I'd love to hear your thoughts on it. Feel free to include them in the Comments on this post.
Amidst all of the stress of the last 2 weeks, I realized I needed to take some time for myself. I had been avoiding the treadmill and felt awful about it. I was just muscling through our book & study. I needed some quiet mindfulness that really made me focus and not allow my mind to wander. So, I turned back to my yoga practice and a new source (for me), YouTube. I found Yoga with Adrienne, did a random session or two and then decided to take her 30 Day Challenge. Now, I usually don't do challenges, just not my thing. But, I liked her style and I needed a push. I started it last Monday; by Day 3 I was struggling to take that 20 minutes to practice (told you I don't do challenges), but I did it and I'm happy to say I just finished Day 7! And it was 30 minutes long!!
The interesting thing about today's practice was that there was no picture. I'm sure it was my total lack of understanding of how the TV, Blu-Ray player and the 2 remotes work, that caused this glitch; no matter what I tried, I couldn't see the sweet smile of Adrienne. Instead of turning it off, I embraced the black screen and just listened to her voice. The yogi always leads the class by verbal instruction, so I didn't think it would be that difficult. It was definitely a different experience. I had to really pay attention and not rely on seeing her in a pose. At one point I wasn't quite sure what she meant, so I did what I thought she was saying. Part way through, I confused two poses and was doing Warrior 2 when I should have been doing Warrior 1; I fixed it when we did it on the other side. But, I also noticed that I wasn't distracted with visual stimulus. I didn't watch the traffic out her window, I didn't wish my house was as uncluttered as hers, and I didn't admire the antique writing table in the corner. I just listened and moved. It was both humbling & empowering.
The black TV screen with a guiding voice reminds me of my relationship with God, my Redeemer. I don't always have a visual, but through His word and being in a community of believers, I am able to move forward, doing what He says. I don't always get it right, sometimes I have to guess at exactly what He means, and sometimes I get it wrong or am confused. But, God continues to guide me, knowing I'll get it right the next time. He gently guides my movements as long as I am listening, purposefully tuned in to His voice. And He allows for making adjustments along the way. Through the many blessings of life, He reminds me to breathe and smile.
I wonder if our ancient sister Ruth felt this way. Clearly, she heard God's call to move. But without a visual (a flashing neon arrow or at least the gratitude of her mother-in-law) how did she know she was getting it right? I'm going to guess that it was her faith that allowed her to boldly go in the direction that God was calling her. She did the best she could; she did what she thought God was telling her to do and left the rest up to Him. What an important message for us!
Chapter 7 in our book starts to show us how Boaz parallels what God does for His people and foreshadows what Jesus will do for us. Turn to the study guide questions in the back of the book. They are especially good this week and will help deepen our relationship with our Redeemer; moving as God leads, even when we don't have a visual!
Scroll down and leave a comment, question or "ah-ha" moment!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
This week we are reading verses 18-23 in the second chapter of Ruth (The Book of Lovingkindness) and chapter 7 of The Girl's Still Got It, by Liz Curtis Higgs. If you have some catching up to do, that's ok! Jump right in, come as you are. I am so glad you are here!
First, I have to say a great big Hallelujah! After years of computer issues, I finally have a new computer! I am very thankful for this speedy little machine :) If you're wondering if you missed a blog for chapter 6, you didn't. I did. The last 2 weeks were, well, a little overwhelming & overbooked. I just couldn't deal with computer problems on top of all of it. I hope chapter 6 enlightened, informed, and entertained. I'd love to hear your thoughts on it. Feel free to include them in the Comments on this post.
Amidst all of the stress of the last 2 weeks, I realized I needed to take some time for myself. I had been avoiding the treadmill and felt awful about it. I was just muscling through our book & study. I needed some quiet mindfulness that really made me focus and not allow my mind to wander. So, I turned back to my yoga practice and a new source (for me), YouTube. I found Yoga with Adrienne, did a random session or two and then decided to take her 30 Day Challenge. Now, I usually don't do challenges, just not my thing. But, I liked her style and I needed a push. I started it last Monday; by Day 3 I was struggling to take that 20 minutes to practice (told you I don't do challenges), but I did it and I'm happy to say I just finished Day 7! And it was 30 minutes long!!
The interesting thing about today's practice was that there was no picture. I'm sure it was my total lack of understanding of how the TV, Blu-Ray player and the 2 remotes work, that caused this glitch; no matter what I tried, I couldn't see the sweet smile of Adrienne. Instead of turning it off, I embraced the black screen and just listened to her voice. The yogi always leads the class by verbal instruction, so I didn't think it would be that difficult. It was definitely a different experience. I had to really pay attention and not rely on seeing her in a pose. At one point I wasn't quite sure what she meant, so I did what I thought she was saying. Part way through, I confused two poses and was doing Warrior 2 when I should have been doing Warrior 1; I fixed it when we did it on the other side. But, I also noticed that I wasn't distracted with visual stimulus. I didn't watch the traffic out her window, I didn't wish my house was as uncluttered as hers, and I didn't admire the antique writing table in the corner. I just listened and moved. It was both humbling & empowering.
The black TV screen with a guiding voice reminds me of my relationship with God, my Redeemer. I don't always have a visual, but through His word and being in a community of believers, I am able to move forward, doing what He says. I don't always get it right, sometimes I have to guess at exactly what He means, and sometimes I get it wrong or am confused. But, God continues to guide me, knowing I'll get it right the next time. He gently guides my movements as long as I am listening, purposefully tuned in to His voice. And He allows for making adjustments along the way. Through the many blessings of life, He reminds me to breathe and smile.
I wonder if our ancient sister Ruth felt this way. Clearly, she heard God's call to move. But without a visual (a flashing neon arrow or at least the gratitude of her mother-in-law) how did she know she was getting it right? I'm going to guess that it was her faith that allowed her to boldly go in the direction that God was calling her. She did the best she could; she did what she thought God was telling her to do and left the rest up to Him. What an important message for us!
Chapter 7 in our book starts to show us how Boaz parallels what God does for His people and foreshadows what Jesus will do for us. Turn to the study guide questions in the back of the book. They are especially good this week and will help deepen our relationship with our Redeemer; moving as God leads, even when we don't have a visual!
Scroll down and leave a comment, question or "ah-ha" moment!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
TGSGI Chapter 5
"Now there was a wealthy and influential man in Bethlehem named Boaz, who was a relative of Naomi's husband, Elimelech." Ruth 2:1
Oooo, something good this way comes!
First: yea! My computer is working today and has allowed me to hop on here and write to you! And I'm glad because this chapter is so exciting! Ok, not action-movie exciting, but almost.
The opening verse gives us a glimpse of this guy, Boaz before he actually shows up in the story. That's a teaser, not a spoiler alert. It makes what comes later, that much more exciting. Think about when you're watching a movie and you know what's going to happen, but the character doesn't. How do you react? I usually yell at the screen, "No, don't go in there!" or "Yes! You are going to love this!" depending on the scene. Knowing what's going to happen doesn't make it any less thrilling and in fact, sometimes ramps us the excitement. So it was with the ancient audience who was listening to this story and for us as we read it today.
We have the flash forward and then back to 'the present' in verse 2. Ruth, this strong, independent woman suggests that she go glean in the fields. Wow! She's willing to do whatever it takes to make a life for herself and for Naomi now that they are in Bethlehem. And she just so happens to wind up in Boaz's field? Did you see that coming? Of course you did, otherwise why mention him in the first verse! Now do you see how things are unfolding. This story is really getting good.
But my favorite part isn't directly found in Ruth. Oh, the original listeners would have known this fact, but we miss it in the 21st Century because we don't hear these stories over & over again. They aren't a part of our heritage and our gatherings. But here's the juicy part: Boaz's mother was Rahab!! Oh my goodness! When I read that (on page 66) I just about yelled, 'shut the front door!' This adds so many layers to this guy, this story, and their relationship. I love it! Am I too excited about this? Am I that much of a book geek? Maybe, but I just can't help myself. I love a good story and the fact that's it's a Biblical story, just makes it that much better!
There's a lot more good stuff in these first few verses of chapter 2. What was your favorite part? What in Liz's writing helped you more fully understand these verses? Was there any part that made you want to 'yell at the screen'?
After reading Ruth 2:1-7 and chapter 5 in The Girl's Still Got It, spend some time diving deeper into your heart with the study guide questions in the back of the book. If you're joining the live discussion on Friday morning, be ready with some thoughts on omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent and the concept of providence.
I'd love to hear what you think of this chapter and this part of Ruth, the story, and the characters Ruth, Naomi, & Boaz! Leave your thoughts, ideas, and conversation starters in the Comment section!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Oooo, something good this way comes!
First: yea! My computer is working today and has allowed me to hop on here and write to you! And I'm glad because this chapter is so exciting! Ok, not action-movie exciting, but almost.
The opening verse gives us a glimpse of this guy, Boaz before he actually shows up in the story. That's a teaser, not a spoiler alert. It makes what comes later, that much more exciting. Think about when you're watching a movie and you know what's going to happen, but the character doesn't. How do you react? I usually yell at the screen, "No, don't go in there!" or "Yes! You are going to love this!" depending on the scene. Knowing what's going to happen doesn't make it any less thrilling and in fact, sometimes ramps us the excitement. So it was with the ancient audience who was listening to this story and for us as we read it today.
We have the flash forward and then back to 'the present' in verse 2. Ruth, this strong, independent woman suggests that she go glean in the fields. Wow! She's willing to do whatever it takes to make a life for herself and for Naomi now that they are in Bethlehem. And she just so happens to wind up in Boaz's field? Did you see that coming? Of course you did, otherwise why mention him in the first verse! Now do you see how things are unfolding. This story is really getting good.
But my favorite part isn't directly found in Ruth. Oh, the original listeners would have known this fact, but we miss it in the 21st Century because we don't hear these stories over & over again. They aren't a part of our heritage and our gatherings. But here's the juicy part: Boaz's mother was Rahab!! Oh my goodness! When I read that (on page 66) I just about yelled, 'shut the front door!' This adds so many layers to this guy, this story, and their relationship. I love it! Am I too excited about this? Am I that much of a book geek? Maybe, but I just can't help myself. I love a good story and the fact that's it's a Biblical story, just makes it that much better!
There's a lot more good stuff in these first few verses of chapter 2. What was your favorite part? What in Liz's writing helped you more fully understand these verses? Was there any part that made you want to 'yell at the screen'?
After reading Ruth 2:1-7 and chapter 5 in The Girl's Still Got It, spend some time diving deeper into your heart with the study guide questions in the back of the book. If you're joining the live discussion on Friday morning, be ready with some thoughts on omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent and the concept of providence.
I'd love to hear what you think of this chapter and this part of Ruth, the story, and the characters Ruth, Naomi, & Boaz! Leave your thoughts, ideas, and conversation starters in the Comment section!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, September 21, 2015
TGSGI - Chapter 3
"When Naomi saw that Ruth was determined to go with her, she said nothing more." Ruth 1:18
Welcome to chapter 3 of "The Girl's Still Got It"! In this chapter Liz breaks down 4 short verses that are filled with high drama, bold exclamations, deep commitment, and emotion.
Last week we wondered what life Orpah & Ruth had to go back to: could they find new husbands after being married to Israelites? Were they welcome in their mother's homes after being childless widows? Was Naomi looking out for them or for herself by suggesting they return? I like to think that returning to their families was a smart move; that finding new husbands was possible and that they would be allowed, if not welcomed, back home. Otherwise, their initial decision to leave with Naomi would not be significant. And Ruth's conviction to stay with Naomi would not be divine.
As we read Liz's dramatic interpretation of Ruth 1:14-18, she paints a vivid picture of Ruth and Naomi. As Orpah starts back toward Moab, Naomi tries again to urge Ruth to go with her. But, Ruth's response is defiant and courageous and (I think) divinely inspired. Liz helps us to understand the importance and the impact Ruth's words are having on Naomi. We have heard these words before, so often perhaps, that they have lost a bit of their edge. But, imagine hearing these words spoken to you or by you during a crossroads in your life. Perhaps you have... how did that moment change your life?
I'm not fully convinced on every aspect of Liz's imagining of Naomi. She did a lot of research and Naomi's words and actions do lend themselves to a certain personality, but I'm not buying in 100% to her dramatization. Mostly because I'm about Naomi's age (though not exactly her time of life) and as I read the book of Ruth, I find myself relating to her more than to Ruth. I tend to be a bit of a complainer, even in the midst of doing something I don't want to do, but know it's right thing to do. So, when we read verse 18 (above) and Liz & other scholars interprets it as "angry, fearful, exhausted, sullen, depressed, beaten down" (pg. 52) I disagree.
On page 45, Liz brings up the possibility that Naomi is testing her daughters-in-law, in a roundabout way. This makes total sense to me! To explain my thought process would take a short paper, so I won't get into that. But, let the idea sit with you for a bit and see how it changes your view of this turning point. In the end, I think Naomi's silence is her own turning point. After all, what more is there to say after seeing the work God did in Ruth's heart? The test was over and is it possible, that Naomi had a slight smile on her lips? Could she be pleased that she will have a loving, strong, courageous companion for the rest of her days? Not that Naomi would let on - that tough exterior built up over the last 10 years will take some time to completely fall away.
A few other things to really pay attention to:
* "But"... on page 46 Liz expands on this storytelling tool. It's what makes stories so exciting!!
* The idea of leaving everything you know and embracing a whole new way of life - talk about an exciting & scary adventure! (page 48-49; Kindle readers: after "Your people will be my people...").
* We plant seeds, but the Lord changes hearts (page 49; Kindle: under the heading THE BIG ONE )
To deepen your understanding and your faith, spend some time answering the Study Guide questions in the back of the book. This time spent in quiet reflection of how the stories of the Bible are connected to each other and how they inform and impact our lives, is where faith grows in breadth and depth.
Part "b" of question 2 is one we will specifically discuss. Feel free to start the discussion in the comment section below or (click here to go to the blog). We'll make a list on Friday and I'll share it in it's entirety (a combination of blog comments and the Friday list) on the blog next week. I can't wait to see what you each come up with! Other comments and questions are welcome, too!
Don't forget, we are collecting much needed women's products this Friday. Thank you for your generous donations. In this way we are doing God's work with our hands and directly impacting our community, helping those in need.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Welcome to chapter 3 of "The Girl's Still Got It"! In this chapter Liz breaks down 4 short verses that are filled with high drama, bold exclamations, deep commitment, and emotion.
Last week we wondered what life Orpah & Ruth had to go back to: could they find new husbands after being married to Israelites? Were they welcome in their mother's homes after being childless widows? Was Naomi looking out for them or for herself by suggesting they return? I like to think that returning to their families was a smart move; that finding new husbands was possible and that they would be allowed, if not welcomed, back home. Otherwise, their initial decision to leave with Naomi would not be significant. And Ruth's conviction to stay with Naomi would not be divine.
As we read Liz's dramatic interpretation of Ruth 1:14-18, she paints a vivid picture of Ruth and Naomi. As Orpah starts back toward Moab, Naomi tries again to urge Ruth to go with her. But, Ruth's response is defiant and courageous and (I think) divinely inspired. Liz helps us to understand the importance and the impact Ruth's words are having on Naomi. We have heard these words before, so often perhaps, that they have lost a bit of their edge. But, imagine hearing these words spoken to you or by you during a crossroads in your life. Perhaps you have... how did that moment change your life?
I'm not fully convinced on every aspect of Liz's imagining of Naomi. She did a lot of research and Naomi's words and actions do lend themselves to a certain personality, but I'm not buying in 100% to her dramatization. Mostly because I'm about Naomi's age (though not exactly her time of life) and as I read the book of Ruth, I find myself relating to her more than to Ruth. I tend to be a bit of a complainer, even in the midst of doing something I don't want to do, but know it's right thing to do. So, when we read verse 18 (above) and Liz & other scholars interprets it as "angry, fearful, exhausted, sullen, depressed, beaten down" (pg. 52) I disagree.
On page 45, Liz brings up the possibility that Naomi is testing her daughters-in-law, in a roundabout way. This makes total sense to me! To explain my thought process would take a short paper, so I won't get into that. But, let the idea sit with you for a bit and see how it changes your view of this turning point. In the end, I think Naomi's silence is her own turning point. After all, what more is there to say after seeing the work God did in Ruth's heart? The test was over and is it possible, that Naomi had a slight smile on her lips? Could she be pleased that she will have a loving, strong, courageous companion for the rest of her days? Not that Naomi would let on - that tough exterior built up over the last 10 years will take some time to completely fall away.
A few other things to really pay attention to:
* "But"... on page 46 Liz expands on this storytelling tool. It's what makes stories so exciting!!
* The idea of leaving everything you know and embracing a whole new way of life - talk about an exciting & scary adventure! (page 48-49; Kindle readers: after "Your people will be my people...").
* We plant seeds, but the Lord changes hearts (page 49; Kindle: under the heading THE BIG ONE )
To deepen your understanding and your faith, spend some time answering the Study Guide questions in the back of the book. This time spent in quiet reflection of how the stories of the Bible are connected to each other and how they inform and impact our lives, is where faith grows in breadth and depth.
Part "b" of question 2 is one we will specifically discuss. Feel free to start the discussion in the comment section below or (click here to go to the blog). We'll make a list on Friday and I'll share it in it's entirety (a combination of blog comments and the Friday list) on the blog next week. I can't wait to see what you each come up with! Other comments and questions are welcome, too!
Don't forget, we are collecting much needed women's products this Friday. Thank you for your generous donations. In this way we are doing God's work with our hands and directly impacting our community, helping those in need.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, September 14, 2015
TGSTI - Chapter 2
"Then Naomi heard in Moab that the Lord had blessed his people in Judah by giving them good crops again. So Naomi and her daughters-in-law got ready to leave Moab to return to her homeland." Ruth 1:6
Yesterday was Rally Day at church. A day to kick-off the new Sunday School year, to celebrate the mission trip of the Youth over the summer and enjoy a church picnic on the front lawn. A day to rally God's people after a "time apart" (aka summer break). It's a day of making connections and reflecting on the work of our church with each other.
During this time, I had the opportunity to talk with a few people about the youth. We are fortunate to have an active youth group and Sunday school. However, we still see the decline of young people's participation from the time they are confirmed until they have children of their own; and wondered and guessed as to why this happens. Those high school, college, and early adult years seem to be a normal 'time apart' in our personal faith cycle. I know I am certainly guilty of it. And 2 of my children are in that time (high school & college) and don't always make it to Sunday services, even when the rest of us are going. There are as many reasons why this happens as there are people; but it doesn't mean they (we) have turned out backs on God.
When I read chapter 2 of The Girl's Still Got It, where Liz talks about our opening verse (above) I was reminded of the natural faith cycle of regular attendance and regular absence. I'm not saying it's something we should do (take time away from the church), but it seems to be something we do, as humans. Naomi left for 10+ years, the prodigal son left for a time, and our young people often find themselves attending in an off-and-on fashion from about age 15-25 (NOT a statistic, this is from my own personal experience). And certainly not everyone! There are active faith organizations in every high school & on every college campus. There are dynamic, energizing ministries that are made up of mostly that age group. So, this is not a blanket statement, but one I think many churches notice.
My point is: Naomi was in a foreign land, but she did not abandon her faith. She kept her eyes on the Lord. She kept her ear tuned to news from her homeland. Why? Hope. She knew, even in her difficulties and whining, that the Lord would not abandon her. It wasn't easy and she was not the most graceful throughout the situation, but she was brave and eager to rejoin her people and return to God, physically, to dwell in the land he had given her people. (For me, "Judah" represents my church.)
I think it's that way with the 'least represented' age group. It may be that this is a natural cycle of exploring, testing, and asserting one's faith in a different direction. It's not that they (we - because this can occur at any age!) turn our backs on God, or our faith, but something else pulls us in a different direction. The world, in Naomi's case starvation, has a more immediate priority for a time. But that doesn't mean that we completely lose faith. Even if we are like the prodigal son and live it up for a while, we know that God will not abandon us.
If we keep a listening ear tuned to the heart of God, we will always return to Him. And He will always receive us "Filled with love and compassion..." Luke 15:20a.
There is tons of great stuff in chapter 2! If you haven't already read it, read it today. Take the rest of the week to answer the questions in the study guide. Jot down your answers and any other insights you have as you read. Liz is great at explaining what's 'lost in translation' and really brings these verses to life! How does it translate into your life? What parallels to do you see? How is it informing your faith journey?
I am eager to know how you are doing with this! If you are reading this in your e-mail click here to post in the Comment section. Let's start a conversation!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Yesterday was Rally Day at church. A day to kick-off the new Sunday School year, to celebrate the mission trip of the Youth over the summer and enjoy a church picnic on the front lawn. A day to rally God's people after a "time apart" (aka summer break). It's a day of making connections and reflecting on the work of our church with each other.
During this time, I had the opportunity to talk with a few people about the youth. We are fortunate to have an active youth group and Sunday school. However, we still see the decline of young people's participation from the time they are confirmed until they have children of their own; and wondered and guessed as to why this happens. Those high school, college, and early adult years seem to be a normal 'time apart' in our personal faith cycle. I know I am certainly guilty of it. And 2 of my children are in that time (high school & college) and don't always make it to Sunday services, even when the rest of us are going. There are as many reasons why this happens as there are people; but it doesn't mean they (we) have turned out backs on God.
When I read chapter 2 of The Girl's Still Got It, where Liz talks about our opening verse (above) I was reminded of the natural faith cycle of regular attendance and regular absence. I'm not saying it's something we should do (take time away from the church), but it seems to be something we do, as humans. Naomi left for 10+ years, the prodigal son left for a time, and our young people often find themselves attending in an off-and-on fashion from about age 15-25 (NOT a statistic, this is from my own personal experience). And certainly not everyone! There are active faith organizations in every high school & on every college campus. There are dynamic, energizing ministries that are made up of mostly that age group. So, this is not a blanket statement, but one I think many churches notice.
My point is: Naomi was in a foreign land, but she did not abandon her faith. She kept her eyes on the Lord. She kept her ear tuned to news from her homeland. Why? Hope. She knew, even in her difficulties and whining, that the Lord would not abandon her. It wasn't easy and she was not the most graceful throughout the situation, but she was brave and eager to rejoin her people and return to God, physically, to dwell in the land he had given her people. (For me, "Judah" represents my church.)
I think it's that way with the 'least represented' age group. It may be that this is a natural cycle of exploring, testing, and asserting one's faith in a different direction. It's not that they (we - because this can occur at any age!) turn our backs on God, or our faith, but something else pulls us in a different direction. The world, in Naomi's case starvation, has a more immediate priority for a time. But that doesn't mean that we completely lose faith. Even if we are like the prodigal son and live it up for a while, we know that God will not abandon us.
If we keep a listening ear tuned to the heart of God, we will always return to Him. And He will always receive us "Filled with love and compassion..." Luke 15:20a.
There is tons of great stuff in chapter 2! If you haven't already read it, read it today. Take the rest of the week to answer the questions in the study guide. Jot down your answers and any other insights you have as you read. Liz is great at explaining what's 'lost in translation' and really brings these verses to life! How does it translate into your life? What parallels to do you see? How is it informing your faith journey?
I am eager to know how you are doing with this! If you are reading this in your e-mail click here to post in the Comment section. Let's start a conversation!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Friday, September 4, 2015
The Girl's Still Got It! aka TGSGI!
"Then Naomi heard in Moab that the Lord had blessed his people in Judah by giving them good crops again. So Naomi and her daughters-in-law got ready to leave Moab to return to her homeland."
Ruth 1:6
If you have or know of school aged children, this week was an exciting (hopefully) week! Back-to-school! In most cases the children are returning to both the familiar and the unfamiliar. They are often returning to a school building they know and will know some kids in their class. But they will also have new kids in their class, a new teacher and new expectations. If you've ever relocated over the summer, you & your children have had the experience of back-to-school where everything is new!
So it is in our story of Ruth and Naomi. Naomi has been living 'out of town' for a long time; she is "returning to her homeland", but some things will be different. Ruth & Orpah, the dutiful daughters-in-law, start to go with her. Guessing that the prospect of a whole new life is a bit overwhelming for Orpah, she takes the opportunity Naomi offers and returns to Moab. Ruth, however sticks around. Her passionate words are found in Ruth 1:16-17.
Looking at just this experience of returning (Naomi) and going (Ruth) to Judah, ask yourself how you would feel in each character's place? When was the last time you returned to a "place" (this could also be a situation, person, idea) from which you had a long absence.
Have you ever had to pick up and move to a whole new "place" (again, this could be forming new relationships, meeting new challenges, etc)?
How did that make you feel in each of these situations? Perhaps you are in the midst of this right now, can you describe your thoughts & emotions?
Now that you've put yourself in Naomi's sandals and Ruth's sandals, I hope you have a stronger connections to these women. Yes, these two women lived a long time ago, in a very different time & place. But, we have much in common with them and I hope you are starting to feel it!
I'm so excited to get together with you to talk about all of this!! I wish we could meet for half the day! Alas, that is not possible. So, come here and type your comments, insights, & questions. We can begin or continue conversations right here on-line!
Read "Before We Dive In" and "Chapter One" of The Girl's Still Got It, prior to our first meeting! Take a few notes and jot down your thoughts & answers to the questions in the Study Guide in the back of the book.
I'll see you in ONE WEEK!!! In person or on-line, I cannot wait!
Friday, September 11 at 9:15 am!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Ruth 1:6
If you have or know of school aged children, this week was an exciting (hopefully) week! Back-to-school! In most cases the children are returning to both the familiar and the unfamiliar. They are often returning to a school building they know and will know some kids in their class. But they will also have new kids in their class, a new teacher and new expectations. If you've ever relocated over the summer, you & your children have had the experience of back-to-school where everything is new!
So it is in our story of Ruth and Naomi. Naomi has been living 'out of town' for a long time; she is "returning to her homeland", but some things will be different. Ruth & Orpah, the dutiful daughters-in-law, start to go with her. Guessing that the prospect of a whole new life is a bit overwhelming for Orpah, she takes the opportunity Naomi offers and returns to Moab. Ruth, however sticks around. Her passionate words are found in Ruth 1:16-17.
Looking at just this experience of returning (Naomi) and going (Ruth) to Judah, ask yourself how you would feel in each character's place? When was the last time you returned to a "place" (this could also be a situation, person, idea) from which you had a long absence.
Have you ever had to pick up and move to a whole new "place" (again, this could be forming new relationships, meeting new challenges, etc)?
How did that make you feel in each of these situations? Perhaps you are in the midst of this right now, can you describe your thoughts & emotions?
Now that you've put yourself in Naomi's sandals and Ruth's sandals, I hope you have a stronger connections to these women. Yes, these two women lived a long time ago, in a very different time & place. But, we have much in common with them and I hope you are starting to feel it!
I'm so excited to get together with you to talk about all of this!! I wish we could meet for half the day! Alas, that is not possible. So, come here and type your comments, insights, & questions. We can begin or continue conversations right here on-line!
Read "Before We Dive In" and "Chapter One" of The Girl's Still Got It, prior to our first meeting! Take a few notes and jot down your thoughts & answers to the questions in the Study Guide in the back of the book.
I'll see you in ONE WEEK!!! In person or on-line, I cannot wait!
Friday, September 11 at 9:15 am!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Tasty Tuesday
"I scream! You scream! We all scream for ice cream!"
As summer winds down, one favorite memory for many people is indulging in ice cream! It's the perfect summer treat: smooth & creamy & refreshingly cold on a hot summer's day. Everyone has their favorite kind: soft serve, hard hand scooped, and gelato. Personally, I like them all and one of my favorites is vanilla ice cream on a soft, warm waffle!
Ice cream comes in every flavor you can imagine! From the standard chocolate & vanilla to the classic strawberry & butter pecan to the exotic mango and the strange lumberjack (waffle cone, maple syrup & crumbled bacon). You name it and someone, somewhere probably makes an ice cream flavor of it. Even how you eat it caters to an individual's fancy: you can get it on a stick, in a sandwich (chocolate, cookie, waffle), a cone (traditional or waffle), a bowl and even layered in cake. You can top it with nuts, fruits, candy & syrups! It's probably one of the most individual desserts ever invented!
From the ringing bell of the Ice Cream Truck to the long lines at the local ice cream parlor, it's a summer treat enjoyed by the masses! People make a living creating this delicious treat and some have built an empire on it!
This summer I discovered a "new" ice cream while browsing Pinterest! That form of social media can really cut into my productivity. But, I've made some great discoveries and No-Churn Ice Cream is one of them. This latest craze in dessert has probably been around for some time, but it's popularity is back in the spotlight! Just like traditional ice cream, you can create any flavor imaginable. The differences being: 1) it's base is only 3 ingredients and 2) the only kitchen appliance you need is a mixer. It's so simple it's dangerous! Don't believe me? Check out my Pinterest Board dedicated to Ice Cream. I used the basic chocolate ice cream recipe to create chocolate marshmallow, one of my family's favorites. This is something my family will be requesting (or making themselves) from now on!
 |
| No-Churn Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream |
As much as I love this no-churn ice cream craze, traditional ice cream is worth the extra effort on occasion. Especially if you have summer-fresh fruit on hand! There's nothing like fresh peaches, sweet & juicy & oh so delicious! God knew what he was doing when he created peaches, down to the enticing soft yellow-red of the outside, while the inside is a glorious golden color! I don't know how anyone can't like them! My son being one of those people - so strange! That just means more for the rest of us! We had a few peaches that were ripening faster than we could devour them, so I decided to get out my ice cream maker and churn some homemade peach ice cream! My mouth is watering just thinking about it! It certainly lived up to the high expectation of creating memories of summer's favorite dessert! And the combination of ice cream and fresh peaches could only be descried as "Mmmmm".
 |
| Homemade Traditional Vanilla-Peach Ice Cream |
Share your favorite ice cream flavor in the comments below! Do you have a favorite ice cream shop? I'd love to check it out (if it's close). In my town everyone goes to Denville Dairy, it's the summer (spring & fall) gathering place, especially after sporting events.
I hope you enjoy these last few official days of summer! Packing some homemade ice cream into your freezer may help you hold on to summer, even into autumn.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, August 31, 2015
Get Packing
"Which girl's still got it? Ruth's definitely got it! Yes, that Ruth. The one in the Bible. And her mother-in-law, Naomi? She's still got it too. So do you, beloved." ~Liz Curtis Higgs, The Girl's Still Got It
On days that I'm feeling like I just don't have it all together, this message comforts me. Lately, every day feels like that! Maybe it's the time of year - packing away the summer attitude and getting ready for a new school year. And for the second time, it means physically packing up our oldest daughter's belongings and moving her into her dorm. It is a bitter-sweet time of year and a bitter-sweet time in life.
I can only imagine what Naomi was feeling when Elimelech told her to get packing! She was faced with packing up the family & all their possessions (or at least most of the household) and moving far away! Far away from what they've ever known, far from friends, far from family. BUT, life was hard in Bethlehem; and now a severe famine has taken hold of the land. A mom's gotta do what a mom's gotta do to save her children! So Naomi packed her bags and moved. There's no doubt in my mind that it was a bitter-sweet time in Naomi's life.
In our study of Naomi & Ruth we will come to know both the bitterness and the sweetness of Naomi. I know, the book is named for Ruth, but as a middle-aged mom (with some of my friends being grandmas) I find that I identify with Naomi as much as I appreciate the story of Ruth. Both women are transformed over the course of the story. And Liz's opening words indicate that although the book carries Ruth's name, it's not all about her. It's about Naomi too, their relationship, their faith, and their hope.
What does that mean for me and for you? One lesson may be that no matter what stage of life we are in, no matter what hardships we face, no matter if we are a new believer or have lost our way, God does not give up on us. Even when we can't see how things could possibly get better, when we think we're 'past saving' or 'too old to be useful', God sees only His children and wants to make sure we are safe in His care.
I am so excited to start discussing this book with you! The Book of Ruth and The Girl's Still Got It has something for everyone! It's a many-leveled love story! It's also a journey story of growth, faith, and redemption, with a little sauciness thrown in! So, grab your book, your journal and ask a friend to join you!!
Don't have your book yet?! Go HERE to support Redeemer Youth & Family Ministry by purchasing it through Amazon. They have a great selection of used books at fantastic prices!!
Get Reading! Please read "Before We Dive In" and Chapter 1 before our first gathering on September 11, 9:15 am. Note: this is a little earlier than past years! I will have the coffee & tea on at 9, so feel free to arrive early!
Can't make it Friday mornings? That's okay! That's why I started this blog! You can read along, post comments & start discussions right here on the blog! Want to talk? I'd love to meet up over coffee, e-mail or have a word on Sunday morning! If there's one thing I love more than reading a book, it's talking about it! And I'm betting that I'm not the only one...
If you've never done an on-line Bible study, go ahead and take the plunge today! Everything you need for the study is in Liz's book (the study guide is in the back). You can do it on your own schedule and keep pace by following the blog. It's a great way for a busy woman to stay connected to The Word and our community.
I look forward to taking this journey with you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
On days that I'm feeling like I just don't have it all together, this message comforts me. Lately, every day feels like that! Maybe it's the time of year - packing away the summer attitude and getting ready for a new school year. And for the second time, it means physically packing up our oldest daughter's belongings and moving her into her dorm. It is a bitter-sweet time of year and a bitter-sweet time in life.
I can only imagine what Naomi was feeling when Elimelech told her to get packing! She was faced with packing up the family & all their possessions (or at least most of the household) and moving far away! Far away from what they've ever known, far from friends, far from family. BUT, life was hard in Bethlehem; and now a severe famine has taken hold of the land. A mom's gotta do what a mom's gotta do to save her children! So Naomi packed her bags and moved. There's no doubt in my mind that it was a bitter-sweet time in Naomi's life.
In our study of Naomi & Ruth we will come to know both the bitterness and the sweetness of Naomi. I know, the book is named for Ruth, but as a middle-aged mom (with some of my friends being grandmas) I find that I identify with Naomi as much as I appreciate the story of Ruth. Both women are transformed over the course of the story. And Liz's opening words indicate that although the book carries Ruth's name, it's not all about her. It's about Naomi too, their relationship, their faith, and their hope.
What does that mean for me and for you? One lesson may be that no matter what stage of life we are in, no matter what hardships we face, no matter if we are a new believer or have lost our way, God does not give up on us. Even when we can't see how things could possibly get better, when we think we're 'past saving' or 'too old to be useful', God sees only His children and wants to make sure we are safe in His care.
I am so excited to start discussing this book with you! The Book of Ruth and The Girl's Still Got It has something for everyone! It's a many-leveled love story! It's also a journey story of growth, faith, and redemption, with a little sauciness thrown in! So, grab your book, your journal and ask a friend to join you!!
Don't have your book yet?! Go HERE to support Redeemer Youth & Family Ministry by purchasing it through Amazon. They have a great selection of used books at fantastic prices!!
Get Reading! Please read "Before We Dive In" and Chapter 1 before our first gathering on September 11, 9:15 am. Note: this is a little earlier than past years! I will have the coffee & tea on at 9, so feel free to arrive early!
Can't make it Friday mornings? That's okay! That's why I started this blog! You can read along, post comments & start discussions right here on the blog! Want to talk? I'd love to meet up over coffee, e-mail or have a word on Sunday morning! If there's one thing I love more than reading a book, it's talking about it! And I'm betting that I'm not the only one...
If you've never done an on-line Bible study, go ahead and take the plunge today! Everything you need for the study is in Liz's book (the study guide is in the back). You can do it on your own schedule and keep pace by following the blog. It's a great way for a busy woman to stay connected to The Word and our community.
I look forward to taking this journey with you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, August 24, 2015
Peeking Over the Horizon
"In the days when the judges ruled in Israel, a man from Bethlehem in Judah left the country because of a severe famine. He took his wife and two sons and went to live in the country of Moab." Ruth 1:1
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here today. As I'm peeking over the horizon of August into September I am both saddened that summer is nearly over and excited to gather with you once again!
I've been in August limbo with vacation, end-of-summer, start-of-hockey, back-to-school craziness! When August arrives I feel like summer has just begun & is nearly over, all at the same time. It hits me that there was so much more I had planned to do and just didn't get to it yet. The stores & TV commercials are already in back-to-school mode and of course, hockey is in full swing. Some day August will be just another month in the year and I'll miss all this, but until then I have to admit, August is a 'lost month' for me. It is a month where I feel like I live a split personality: summer laziness & full swing craziness! But I am thankful for every spinning minute!!
I could be facing a life like Naomi's...
In our next book, The Girl's Still Got It by Liz Curtis Higgs, we meet a wife & mother named Naomi. The opening verse is not your typical "once upon a time" beginning. In fact, it's about as bleak a beginning as you can get! Naomi is peeking over the horizon to an unknown future in a foreign & unfriendly land. She is following her husband to a forbidden place in hopes of saving her family from starvation.
To refresh your memory (or in case you didn't know), the time of the judges was not the best time for Israel, to put it mildly. In my Bible, Judges chapters 1-3 are given the heading "The Military Failure of Israel" and over & over again, the Israelites turn their backs on God. If you haven't yet read the book of Judges, you should. It's an interesting, scary, "Mad Max" kind of read and many scholars draw similarities to today's society. The book of Ruth takes place during the time of Judges, setting the stage of the story. On top of the religious upheaval & continuous warring with their neighbors, a famine sets in. Could it get any worse?! Read the book of Ruth to find out!
On Friday, September 11 at 9:15am, we'll dive right in to our new study. In order to finish the book by December 11th, we'll need to start right away! (Yes, I know it's 14 weeks, but we'll have 2 weeks off in November.)
Read "Before We Dive In" and "Chapter 1" before our first gathering. Read Ruth in your Bible, too. Choose your favorite translation & grab a refreshing beverage - you can probably read the whole book of Ruth before you finish your drink! It's only 4 chapters. It will take a little longer to read our study book, but Liz has such an engaging writing style, you won't want to put it down!
Don't have your book yet? You can get it here, on Liz's website. Better yet, support our Youth & Family Ministry by going here and ordering through Amazon.
In order to get the most out of our time in The Word, it's important to ponder what we've read and how it applies to our lives - otherwise, it's just story time. God wants to work amazing things in us and through us, but if we don't take the time to listen and apply His teaching, we won't be ready. That's where the Study Guide come to the rescue!
After reading each chapter, turn to the back of the book and find the Study Guide (pg 175). Our topics of conversation will begin with these questions every week. Write out your thoughts in a cute notebook or journal. It helps during discussion time - the sound of crickets can be very awkward! And as we've talked about before, journaling our thoughts has tons of benefits! The one that I struggle with the most is slowing down long enough to write out my thoughts. In the fast paced, high demanding, instant gratification world, writing is the opposite of all of that! But it's cathartic & therapeutic & just what we need!
I'd love to hear how keeping a journal has influenced your life. Whether it's a faith journal, a personal journal, or a travel journal, how has it helped you? What benefits have you noticed?
I cannot wait to get started!!! I'll see you on September 11th, at 9:15 am, in the "library" of Redeemer Lutheran Church! I'll have the tea & coffee on and light ReFreshments!
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here today. As I'm peeking over the horizon of August into September I am both saddened that summer is nearly over and excited to gather with you once again!
I've been in August limbo with vacation, end-of-summer, start-of-hockey, back-to-school craziness! When August arrives I feel like summer has just begun & is nearly over, all at the same time. It hits me that there was so much more I had planned to do and just didn't get to it yet. The stores & TV commercials are already in back-to-school mode and of course, hockey is in full swing. Some day August will be just another month in the year and I'll miss all this, but until then I have to admit, August is a 'lost month' for me. It is a month where I feel like I live a split personality: summer laziness & full swing craziness! But I am thankful for every spinning minute!!
I could be facing a life like Naomi's...
In our next book, The Girl's Still Got It by Liz Curtis Higgs, we meet a wife & mother named Naomi. The opening verse is not your typical "once upon a time" beginning. In fact, it's about as bleak a beginning as you can get! Naomi is peeking over the horizon to an unknown future in a foreign & unfriendly land. She is following her husband to a forbidden place in hopes of saving her family from starvation.
To refresh your memory (or in case you didn't know), the time of the judges was not the best time for Israel, to put it mildly. In my Bible, Judges chapters 1-3 are given the heading "The Military Failure of Israel" and over & over again, the Israelites turn their backs on God. If you haven't yet read the book of Judges, you should. It's an interesting, scary, "Mad Max" kind of read and many scholars draw similarities to today's society. The book of Ruth takes place during the time of Judges, setting the stage of the story. On top of the religious upheaval & continuous warring with their neighbors, a famine sets in. Could it get any worse?! Read the book of Ruth to find out!
On Friday, September 11 at 9:15am, we'll dive right in to our new study. In order to finish the book by December 11th, we'll need to start right away! (Yes, I know it's 14 weeks, but we'll have 2 weeks off in November.)
Start reading today!
Don't have your book yet? You can get it here, on Liz's website. Better yet, support our Youth & Family Ministry by going here and ordering through Amazon.
In order to get the most out of our time in The Word, it's important to ponder what we've read and how it applies to our lives - otherwise, it's just story time. God wants to work amazing things in us and through us, but if we don't take the time to listen and apply His teaching, we won't be ready. That's where the Study Guide come to the rescue!
After reading each chapter, turn to the back of the book and find the Study Guide (pg 175). Our topics of conversation will begin with these questions every week. Write out your thoughts in a cute notebook or journal. It helps during discussion time - the sound of crickets can be very awkward! And as we've talked about before, journaling our thoughts has tons of benefits! The one that I struggle with the most is slowing down long enough to write out my thoughts. In the fast paced, high demanding, instant gratification world, writing is the opposite of all of that! But it's cathartic & therapeutic & just what we need!
I'd love to hear how keeping a journal has influenced your life. Whether it's a faith journal, a personal journal, or a travel journal, how has it helped you? What benefits have you noticed?
I cannot wait to get started!!! I'll see you on September 11th, at 9:15 am, in the "library" of Redeemer Lutheran Church! I'll have the tea & coffee on and light ReFreshments!
Encourage a friend and bring an open heart!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
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